Importance of technology for N. Sea future highlighted at ITF event

Leading industry figures speaking at the ITF Technology Showcase today highlighted the importance of technology to the future of the North Sea.

The industry and government body PILOT set up a working group to develop a roadmap to develop actions in support of technology development. This working group is also linked into the Oil and Gas Industry Council, launched by the Secretary of State in March 2013 and the recent Wood Review.

Delegates at the Aberdeen event, being held in partnership with Oil & Gas UK, heard about the recommendations coming from this group, which include the formation of a UKCS Technology Leadership Board, comprising senior industry, government and academic figures, to prioritise delivery of key technology programmes and engage effectively with existing innovation organisations.

John Pearson, Group President Europe of AMEC said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to support and focus the creative talents of the UK to enhance the value we obtain for the offshore oil and gas industry and use this to globally export the capabilities of the supply chain, which can continue long after the North Sea has declined.”

The work now continues with the establishment of the UKCS Technology Leadership Board and the formation of Technology Delivery Groups aligned with the key technology themes that are identified and included in the Wood Review.

The conference and exhibition at Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre, was supported by the Department of Energy and Climate Change and the UK Technology Strategy Board and also enabled technology innovators to network with key figures in the industry and showcase their latest developments.